Who was Sharif Osman Hadi? Radical student leader behind ‘Greater Bangladesh Map dies, Dhaka on edge
A frontline figure in the July 2024 student uprising, Hadi had played a pivotal role in the protests that led to the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina
PTC Web Desk: Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent student leader and activist in Bangladesh, died on December 18 in Singapore after being critically wounded in a targeted shooting last week. Hadi had been flown to Singapore General Hospital and the National Neuroscience Institute following the attack, where doctors had described his condition as extremely critical. The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus coordinated the medical evacuation. Singapore authorities are assisting the Bangladesh High Commission in repatriating his body to Dhaka.
Targeted attack during election campaign
Hadi, 32, was shot in the head by unidentified assailants on December 12 while campaigning in Dhaka for the upcoming general elections as an independent candidate from Dhaka-8 constituency. The attack occurred near a mosque on Culvert Road while he was travelling in a battery-operated auto-rickshaw. He was initially treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, later moved to Evercare Hospital, and eventually flown to Singapore.
Hadi’s political profile and controversies
A frontline figure in the July 2024 student uprising, Hadi had played a pivotal role in the protests that led to the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. As a spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha, a radical student platform, Hadi campaigned vigorously despite the party being disbanded and barred from contesting elections. Born in 1994 in Nalchity Upazila, Jhalokhati, Hadi was known for his radical positions, including anti-India rhetoric, and reportedly circulated maps depicting a so-called Greater Bangladesh that included Indian territories.
Nationwide protests erupt after death
Hadi’s death has triggered protests in Dhaka and across Bangladesh, with demonstrators demanding the arrest of his killers. The Bangladesh police have launched a manhunt, releasing images of two prime suspects and offering a reward of 5 million taka ($42,000) for information leading to their arrest. Security along borders has been heightened, according to officials.
Government declares mourning
Interim leader Muhammad Yunus announced that the national flag will fly at half-mast across government, semi-government, autonomous institutions, educational establishments, and Bangladesh missions abroad. Special prayers will be held after Jummah on December 19. The government has also pledged support for Hadi’s widow and child and declared a one-day national mourning on the coming Saturday.